When do I capitalize job titles?
It's time to talk capitalization! Whether you’re writing a formal letter, putting together a job description, or trying to create an email signature—it’s nice to have some guidelines for when to capitalize job titles. Often I see job titles capitalized even when they shouldn’t be. Did you know there are guidelines for when and when not to capitalize them? Let’s dive in!
How do you know when to capitalize someone's job title?
Here are a few guidelines according to the AP Style Guide.
Titles used before a person's name are capitalized.
✨ Example: Executive Director Marty McFly will be attending tonight.
If the title comes after their name, don't capitalize it.
✨ Example: Marty McFly, the executive director of Acme Company, will be attending tonight.
Is the title standing alone? It should be lowercase.
✨Example: I am very excited to party with this executive director tonight.
Don't capitalize job descriptions, even if they precede a name.
✨ Example: Our executive director, Marty McFly, said the party will go on until dawn with free pizza for everyone.
And what about that email signature? Capitalize it!
✨ Example:
Marty McFly
Executive Director
Acme Company
Keep this in mind: Capitalizing job titles can be a sensitive topic. If your boss insists that their job title (along with others at your company) be capitalized no matter what, it’s best to capitalize. Just make sure you do it consistently. Some see this as a sign of respect, even if it isn’t always technically grammatically correct.
You can also watch this catchy video that summarizes this rule.
Grammar doesn’t have to be confusing. That’s what these blog posts are all about. And if you need some extra help making your written content compelling, targeted to your audience, and error-free, let’s talk!
